Foil-Pack Baked Nachos Recipe

Foil-Pack Baked Nachos are a quick and easy meal perfect for game days, family dinners, and outdoor gatherings. Made with seasoned ground beef, crispy tortilla chips, and melted cheese, these nachos are baked in foil packets for easy prep and cleanup. Customize with fresh toppings like avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and sour cream for added flavor. Whether baked in the oven or cooked on the grill, this recipe delivers a crunchy, cheesy dish that’s great for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Nacho Meat:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 recommended)
• 4 Tbsp taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
• 1/2 cup water
• 4 sheets aluminum foil (16 inches each)

Nacho Toppings:

• 8 oz Mexican blend cheese, divided
• 1 avocado, chopped
• 1 Roma tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onion or chives, chopped
• 4 Tbsp sour cream (or to taste)

Instructions

Prepare the Meat:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until no pink remains.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and water, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Foil Packs:

4. Tear off four 16-inch-long pieces of aluminum foil.
5. Place a handful of tortilla chips in the center of each sheet.
6. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, then add 1/4 of the seasoned beef mixture.
7. Top with another 1/4 cup of cheese.
8. Bring up and double-fold the long ends of the foil, leaving space for air to circulate.
9. Fold up and double-seal the short ends to close each foil packet.

Bake the Nachos:

10. Place foil packs on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes at 350°F.

Add Toppings and Serve:

11. While nachos bake, prepare toppings.
12. Carefully open the foil packs and add avocado, tomato, cilantro, green onion, and sour cream as desired.
13. Serve immediately while hot.

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Tips

• Use sturdy tortilla chips to prevent sogginess.
• For extra crunch, broil the nachos for 1-2 minutes after baking.
• Let the foil packs cool slightly before opening to avoid steam burns.
• Prepare toppings in advance for quick assembly.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
• Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace tortilla chips with bell pepper slices or baked cheese crisps.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the foil packets and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake straight from the fridge, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the cook time.

Can I cook these on the grill?
Absolutely! Place foil packs over medium heat on a grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes with the lid closed.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with guacamole, extra salsa, or a side of refried beans.
• Pair with a refreshing side salad or corn on the cob.
• Add a drizzle of queso or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy nights with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and protein choices.
• Great for gatherings: Fun, individual servings make this a crowd-pleaser.
• Perfect balance of flavors: Cheesy, crunchy, and loaded with delicious toppings.